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A “cramped and muddy” battle fought over just four square kilometres of land, it claimed 70,000 casualties on both sides – around 43,000 French and 24,000 Allies, the latter including 17,000 dead – in 10 hours, which is more than the first day of the Battle of the Somme in WW1 (60,000 casualties).

Duke of Wellington portrait painted by the artist Goya hangs in National Portrait Gallery

To mark the Battle of Waterloo’s 200th anniversary, a “rare” collection of documents is to tour Staffordshire libraries, between now and the end of this year, including Codsall, Cannock, Rugeley, Burton, Lichfield and Tamworth.

Unearthed by Staffordshire County Council’s archive service, it features first-hand battle accounts and a number of documents that refer to one of the most quoted military exchanges of the battle between Lord Uxbridge and the Duke of Wellington.

It was when one of the last cannon shots of the battle to be fired hit Uxbridge’s right leg – which would lead to an above knee amputation – that he was said to have exclaimed to the Duke, “By God, sir, I’ve lost my leg!”, to which Wellington’s reputed to have replied, “By God, sir, so you have!”

The exhibition boasts letters, eyewitness accounts, a charter praising Uxbridge’s bravery and sufferings, a map of Napoleon’s grave, and a diary of the battle.

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) (Image: PA Photos)

There’s also a letter from residents in Burton-upon-Trent – which includes Kings Bromley and Yoxall – sent to Uxbridge to commend his bravery and his letter of response, and praise from residents in Colwich, near Stafford.

Henry Paget, the 1st Earl of Uxbridge, whose family were from Beaudesert on the edge of Cannock Chase, was given the title Marquess of Anglesey in July 1815 in recognition of his services at the battle.